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Welcome to HighMarksJustice.org,
created in honor of Wally Marks (1931-2009)
Wally was a philanthropist of stunning, consistent generosity. For years, his donations have helped to sustain groups of peacemakers in the Middle East and in the United States; human rights efforts; and environmental healing and economic justice. He was also a dear friend, a man of such gentle, unassuming presence that, only in the shock of his loss, is the extent of his impact in the wider world being realized. In Wally’s memory, we hope to create a living, growing site that will illuminate those issues which meant the most to him; in particular, the hope for peace in the Middle East and the imperative to translate that hope into action.
Wally Marks, an exemplary life
Wally Marks was born in Los Angeles and raised in Beverly Hills. He earned his undergraduate and law degrees at Stanford University in 1952 and 1954 respectively, and inherited the real estate firm that had created the Santa Monica Mall. Wally helped to transform the Mall into the 3rd Street Promenade and developed the former Helms Bakery site into a showcase for furniture and antiques. These and other developments, which uplifted the quality of life, prosperity and civic vitality of several neighborhoods, enabled Wally to seek out and fund organizations that would allow him to share his good fortune further. Continue.
Walking With Wally in the West Bank, A Memorial Video
This series of short clips is a selection of video material taken of Wally as he traveled throughout the West Bank from north to south, from Jenin to Hebron, from village to refugee camp, on different trips to the region where he spent countless hours with Palestinians from all walks of life listening to their points of view, learning about life under occupation, and discussing ways of achieving peace and justice.
Filmmaker Rebekah Wingert says, "As his videographer I was always amazed at the powerful impact that his act of listening and wanting to start a dialogue had on the people he met. Wally was often one of a small handful of outsiders who had asked them about their lives and thoughts. Many of them talked about how hard it is to have hope when you feel the world has stopped listening and caring. Through his simple act of listening and a sincere desire to know about their lives, Wally restored a sense of connection to the outside and infused the scene with a rare sense of humanity and dignity."
Photo Slideshow
A MEMORIAL TRIBUTE
HONORING WALLY MARKS
Family and friends of Wally Marks held a special "living participatory memorial event" on May 31st to mark the traditional sh'loshim (near the end of the first month of mourning) since Wally’s death. We are working to post video and photos of the gathering, as well as message cards written by many of the 300 people who attended. In the meantime, you can read the invitation to the memorial here.
The Concerns and Causes of Wally Marks
The many organizations and causes that Wally Marks supported with his money and his energy comprise a living tribute to him. We invite you to browse this website's evolving showcase of grass roots groups and historic institutions dedicated to peace; healthcare, environmentalism and human relations. Wally Marks devoted his life to these causes and we hope, with this site, to continue his work.
Click here to see a list of the organizations and causes Wally Marks supported.